The Virtues of Selective Farming

What do we mean by “selective farming?” It means that we know where the product was produced and by whom. Think about a visit to your local farmer’s market. You are drawn to a stall featuring beautiful healthy produce. You can tell by the aroma (and maybe by a sample offered by the producer) that this produce is fresh, packed with vitamins and a taste sensation. You ask the farmer, “Is this organic?” Many will say simply that they grew it on their own land, by their own hand, and used no chemicals. The farmer may not be interested in the expense or paperwork of organic certification. You decide to purchase the locally grown produce from the farmer who offered you both a taste of his produce and answered your questions. Perhaps you have purchased from him before, and you have been pleased. The price of this quality produce is less than produce with an organic sticker because the farmer did not incur the considerable expense of organic certification. This is a buying decision based on selective farming.

Some Alma del Sol oils are classified as selective farming because we personally know the producer. More often, we rely on the specialty brokers from whom we purchase some of our essential oils. We have been working with these brokers for over 12 years. They have taken the time to get to know the farmers and their methods. Reliance on trusted brokers is important in the essential oil business. Most aromatherapists cannot travel the world to scout out quality producers of therapeutic essential oils. Specialty brokers make their livings by doing just that.